Hey all im sure this question has been asked before but I need some information on bits just a general run down like how can a person tell how harsh the bits are, what are the diffrent harshness levels of bits and what are the diffrent types of bits from least harsh to most harsh and could you break down the diffrent types of bits in each class. Also Im looking for a bridle to go on my horse what im looking for is a bridle with a nose band in already in it because the tie downs that I have bought none of them has worked because they are to long thanks for all of your help

The yellow lines are the purchase. You will want to aim for the shortest purchase possible. The longer the purchase, the more pressure applied to the poll (top of head).

The red is the port. Typically, the lowest port is most desired, but whe too low, it creates no tongue relief for the horse when you release the reins. So really not so good. It would be better on the roof of the horse's mouth, but hasn't as much toungue relief. A higher port (like on this one) creates plenty of tongue relief when used correctly.

Blue lines are the shanks. Generally, the shorter the better. But the longer the less pressure you will need to use on the reins.

A bit is generally only as harsh as the rider's hands, but bits like these aren't gentle nomatter how you use them. Only if you don't use the reins completely. Then why bother using a bit at all?badddd.jpg

^^ Kinda wondering the same thing. And if you are using the commonly distributed version of a tie-down like one of these......
Then how is it too long? Are you talking about the noseband itself being too long or the actual tie strap that attaches it to the cinch?

We used to use tie downs only when riding in parades. The only reason we used them was because it was part of the "uniform," and the club officers wanted all of the horses to have their heads in pretty much the same position. Fortunately, the desired head position did not force using a particulary short tie down. For regular riding, we didn't use tie downs. I loved the action my mare (at the time) had - she was a quarter horse, but sure didn't have the dead looking head position that a lot of the quarter horses had/have.

Im using a tie down because the horse thrashes its head around when you tell her to do something plus the previous used a tie down on her and figured she used a tie down for a reason the strap is to long for the horse

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